USDA Advisory Committee on Minority Farmers Seeks Nominations

WASHINGTON, May 22, 2013--The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently published a Notice of Solicitation for Nominations for its Advisory Committee on Minority Farmers for 2-year membership terms in the Federal Register dated April 30, 2013. "Members of the Advisory Committee on Minority Farmers play a critical role in helping USDA ensure modern and equitable service for all of our customers -- a keystone of the Obama Administration's commitment to civil rights," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "I highly encourage the nomination of folks who are interested in serving their community by helping USDA continue our record accomplishments on behalf of all Americans." This Committee advises the Secretary of Agriculture on matters broadly affecting socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers, and considers strategies, policies, and programs that enhance Department goals for assisting minority farming and ranching operations. The Committee considers goals and objectives necessary to implement its recommendations, as well as methodologies that maximize participation of minority farmers in USDA programs. The USDA is soliciting nominations from interested organizations and individuals from the ranching and farming industry, related State governments, Tribal agricultural agencies, academic institutions, commercial banking entities, trade associations and related nonprofit enterprises. An organization may nominate individuals from within or outside its membership; alternatively, an individual may nominate herself or himself. Nomination forms are available on the internet at: http://www.ocio.usda.gov/forms/doc/AD-755.pdf. Nomination packages must include the nomination form along with a cover letter and resume or biographical description documenting the nominee's background and experience. The deadline for submitting nominations is May 31, 2013. Nomination packages mailed should be addressed to: Mrs. Kenya Nicholas, Designated Federal Official, USDA-OAO, 1400 Independence Avenue, Room 520-A, Washington, DC 20250-0170. Nomination packages may also be faxed to the attention of Mrs. Kenya Nicholas using fax number (202) 720-7704. Any inquires may be sent via email to: ACMF@osec.usda.gov. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (866) 632-9992 (Toll-free Customer Service), (800) 877-8339 (Local or Federal relay), (866) 377-8642 (Relay voice users). #